About 80% of a community’s trees are in residential yards on private property. The majority of others are on street rights-of-way. Do residents in your  community know what they can and cannot do with those trees? Many do not.

• Make sure the rules are clear in the city ordinance. Is a permit needed to plant or remove a tree? Who is responsible for street and sidewalk clearance, or other pruning?
• Publicize the rules at least annually – by newspaper ads or a letter to the editor.
• Print door hangers and use Scouts or other service groups to place them at residences.
• Include occasional slips with utility bills or other mailings.

Communication prevents conflicts!